Stone Fireplaces

Fireplace Masonry in Midland Ontario
Fireplace Masonry in Midland Ontario

Why it is important to make sure your fireplace facing is in good condition?
On a regular basis I am asked to inspect home owner’s fireplaces. When I see cracks in the facing (also known as fireplace front), I tap on the facing and hear hollow sounds indicating there may be a problem. Usually cracks are caused by the angle bar support over the fireplace opening rusting which causes the steel to expand and crack the mortar. Usually if the steel has rusted due to water penetration the mortar is soft.
You must understand at the mantle height behind the drywall or worse yet lathe and plaster is wood which is very flammable. House fires can easily start at this location in the fireplace. I find a lot of home owners get confused when getting several quotes. They are some times told to fill the cracks with mortar or just install tile or other materials right over top of existing fireplace facing which is not the correct solution. I always recommend removing the fireplace facing rebuild using new brick usually at a cost of $1,000.00. This way you can be sure your fireplace is safe.

Stone Walls

Stone Wall Masonry is an Art with function. We provide a high level of quality in customer service and in our construction. Our reputation isn’t built on craftsmanship alone, but upon the idea that each client should feel pride of ownership when the job is done. We believe good work can be both functional and beautiful. Clients have provided references so check our Photo Gallery to see what we mean.

Natural stone and brick

We will undertake repairs to worn work, additions to existing work, and new construction. We do mortared and dry-laid stone. We build hearths, homes and habitats with real rock and brick—not commonplace ‘cultured' concrete. It takes time to acquire the skills and tools of the traditional mason, and we're pleased to keep them. A&K Masonry puts it all ‘up right':

Our forte is telling stories through stone which involve you in some way. New construction offers a chance to create something which not only solves a problem, but which fulfils a dream or expresses an idea. The rocks can talk! And so should you, when your project is complete. 

Stone Structures

Stone Structure Masonry
Stone Structure Masonry
Stone Structure built with masonry is the most beautiful and lasting of all  construction methods for your home or office.  

Natural stone veneer
Barbeques and outdoor ovens
Fireplaces and hearths
Freestanding and retaining walls
Garden follies and objets d'art
Pillars, pilasters and gate posts
Patios, paths and steps.
Interlocking concrete paver (ICPI certified)
It's the real thing

We're biased, sure, but many people believe stone is beautiful. Remember when you last saw a real stone fireplace or heavy retaining wall? Didn't it feel homey and enduring? Now consider how you might feel knowing that the material supporting your mantelpiece or cladding your home was fake. Your house is an investment, and realtors will tell you that natural stone is a feature which can increase the resale value of a property by an average of 6%—a good return on your money. Better yet, stone doesn't date itself, or need painting, and it never falls off.